Google Business Profile setup for small businesses
For most local searches, your Google Business Profile is the first thing people see. Here is how to set it up properly, and keep it working for you.
Updated
Claim and verify the profile
Search for your business on Google. If a profile exists, claim it. If not, create one at business.google.com. Google will ask you to verify that you run the business, usually by a code sent by postcard, phone, email or video.
Choose categories and describe what you do
Pick the one primary category that best matches your main service, then add a few secondary ones that are true. Write a clear description in plain words, and list your services with a short note on each.
If you work from home or travel to customers
If customers do not visit you at an address, you can set up the profile as a service-area business. This lets you hide your street address and show the towns or area you cover instead. This matters for privacy and for the image of your business.
Keep the basics accurate
Most problems come from details that fell out of date.
- Hours, including holiday and seasonal changes
- Phone number and website link
- Real photos of your work, shop and team
- Services and, where useful, prices
- The same business name, address and phone everywhere it appears online
Earn reviews the honest way
Ask happy customers to leave a review, with a direct link to make it easy. Reply to every review, kindly, including the critical ones. Never buy reviews or write your own: it breaks Google's rules and can get the profile suspended.
Related services
Common questions
Is a Google Business Profile free?
Yes. Creating and managing a profile costs nothing.
Can I hide my home address?
If you serve customers at their location and do not meet them at yours, you can set the profile to hide the address and list a service area instead. Follow Google's current rules when you set it up.
Does the profile replace a website?
No. They work together. The profile helps people find you, and the website gives them the detail and a way to act.
Talk it over with a Kansas small business owner
Circuit11 is a small studio in Wichita. The first call is free, and we will tell you plainly what you need and what you do not.